SGAC The Netherlands

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Welcome to SGAC The Netherlands! The Netherlands is relatively new to the SGAC scene, but has a rich tradition in space for at least 60 years...

Space activities in the Netherlands comprise a broad variety of scientific endeavours, smart use of space data (e.g. dyke inspection) and highly innovative industrial product developments. Two Dutch nationals have flown in space: Wubbo Ockels (passed away in 2014) and André Kuipers. The Netherlands also is renowned for its world class knowledge base in astro-physics and atmospheric research.

For young space professionals and students in the Netherlands it is essential to be able to meet and exchange ideas on space policy, -law, -technology, -exploration, and education, and on the many challenges that lay ahead. This SGAC site provides a broad overview of existing activities and key entities that are involved in the Dutch space sector. SGAC The Netherlands herewith hopes to bring together the next generation of Dutch space leaders and to expand their space awareness and knowledge on (inter-)national space policy.

Young Space Activities Overview in The Netherlands

For space enthusiasts there are several ways to become involved and get in contact with other young likeminded people:

Netherlands Space Society (NVR) - there is a special offer for students getting a free digital version of our editorial and reduction is provided on full membership. The NVR organises screenings, lectures, debates, SpaceBorrels (network events) and speed-dates (interaction (young) space professionals with students) for their members. Please visit the NVR website.

Space Department (RVD) - one of the two departments of the VSV 'Leonardo da Vinci'. The RVD promotes astronautics among the students and employees of the faculty of Aerospace Engineering at the Delft University of Technology by organizing lectures and excursions.

Vis Viva - Vis Viva is a society that provides space professionals a platform for interaction and intellectual exchange. Regular meetings are held every two weeks, where (prospecting) members can present, exchange and discuss on all space topics. Other activities include movie nights, pub quizes, study tours, symposia and launch events.

International Space University Alumni NL - Facebook-group for all alumni of the International Space University now living in the Netherlands. We'll organize fun events, and networking get-togethers to keep everyone in touch!

Interesting Web Links for the Young Generation in The Netherlands

Organizations/Institutes

Netherlands Space Office (NSO): The NSO acts as the Dutch agency for space affairs. It was established by the Dutch government in order to develop the Netherlands’ space programme and to bring that programme to action. The NSO is the face of the Dutch space community for international space organisations like ESA, NASA and JAXA as well as the central point of contact for the space community within the Netherlands.

ESA European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC). ESTEC in Noordwijk, the Netherlands, is the largest ESA site in Europe. ESTEC is ESA's technical heart - the incubator of the European space effort - where most ESA projects are born and where they are guided through the various phases of development.

SRON Netherlands Institute for Space Research is the Dutch expertise institute for space research. The institute develops and uses innovative technology for groundbreaking research in space, focusing on astrophysical research, Earth science and planetary research.

TNO Space works with the public sector, Dutch businesses, institutes and universities to carry out research in the field of space technology, thereby contributing to a safe, secure and sustainable world.

Dutch Space, an EADS company is the largest space company in The Netherlands. In de past 30 years it has contributed to major international space projects.

National Aerospace Laboratory (NLR). The NLR is one of the major technological institutes of the country. As an independent non-profit organisation, NLR is the central institute for aerospace research in the Netherlands and provides high-quality technical support to the aerospace sector.

ASTRON is the Netherlands Institute for Radio Astronomy. Its mission is to make discoveries in radio astronomy happen, via the development of novel and innovative technologies, the operation of world-class radio astronomy facilities, and the pursuit of fundamental astronomical research.

KNMI is the national institute for weather, climate research and seismology. It disseminates weather information to the public at large, the government, aviation and the shipping industry in the interest of safety, the economy and a sustainable environment. To gain insight into long-term developments, KNMI conducts research on climate change.

For more information on the Dutch space sector and its capabilities please refer to the online Space Directory provided by the NSO.

Associations/Education

Netherlands Space Society (NVR). The NVR was founded in 1951 with the aim to increase knowledge and interest in space to encourage in the broadest sense. It does so by providing its members and stakeholders a platform for information, communications and activities on offer, including the following resources: stimulating interest in space among young space professionals and students, organizing conferences, lectures (also on schools), film shows and excursions, promoting the publication of a magazine, establishing and maintaining relationships with organisations and agencies at home and abroad, whose objectives are similar to those of association.

Women in Aerospace (WIA) Europe is dedicated to expanding women's opportunities for leadership and increasing their visibility in the aerospace community, by creating a Network in Europe and across the globe.

Delft University of Technology Faculty Aerospace Engineering: one of the largest faculties devoted entirely to aerospace engineering in northern Europe. It is the only unique institute carrying out research and education directly related to aerospace engineering in the Netherlands. The faculty of AE offers a full-English degree, bachelor's and master's programme with PhD opportunities.

International Institute of Air & Space Law in Leiden is one of the leading international academic research and teaching institutes in the world, specialising in legal and policy issues regarding aviation and space activities in the broadest sense of the word.

Hogeschool van Amsterdam (Aviation Studies): the Extreme Project Management in Space Programs minor is aimed at students with a technical background, from structural- or thermal engineers, through to technical- or electronic engineers.

The Netherlands research school for astronomy (NOVA), which is a collaboration between the Universities of Amsterdam, Groningen, Leiden, Nijmegen and Utrecht. The Netherlands has an internationally acknowledged reputation for education in astronomy.

The Institute for Environmental Studies (IVM) in Amsterdam is the oldest environmental research institute in the Netherlands. IVM has built up considerable experience in dealing with the complexities of environmental problems. Its purpose is to contribute to sustainable development and the rehabilitation and preservation of the environment through academic research and training.

ESERO (European Space Education Resource Office) serves as a contact for anyone who can use educational support for space activities in the classroom. ESERO is an initiative of the European Space Agency and will come from the National Center for Science and Technology, the parent of science center NEMO in Amsterdam.